Prunus subhirtella

A deciduous tree growing to 8 m tall with equal spread, developing at a fast rate. Flowers prolifically from November through April. Hermaphroditic and insect-pollinated. Tolerates light sandy, medium loamy, and heavy clay soils preferring well-drained conditions. Grows in mildly acid, neutral, or basic soils. Can grow in semi-shade or full sun and prefers moist soil.

Description

A tree that loses its leaves. It grows 8 m tall and spreads 3 m wide. The stem is erect and branching. The crown is dense. The leaves are sword shaped and taper to the tip. They are 7.5 cm long and have double teeth along the edge. The flowers are pale pink. They are open and have 5 notched petals. The fruit are small, dark skinned cherries.

Edible Uses

The fruit can be eaten raw or cooked, though it is of little culinary value. It is about 9mm in diameter and contains one large seed. The seed is also edible raw or cooked, but should not be eaten if it tastes too bitter. The flowers are preserved in salt and used as an addition to tea.

Medicinal Uses

Like all members of the genus, this species contains amygdalin and prunasin, which break down in water to release hydrocyanic acid (prussic acid). In small amounts, this compound stimulates respiration, aids digestion, and produces a sense of well-being.

Known Hazards

Although no specific mention has been seen for this species, it belongs to a genus where most, if not all members of the genus produce hydrogen cyanide, a poison that gives almonds their characteristic flavour. This toxin is found mainly in the leaves and seed and is readily detected by its bitter taste. It is usually present in too small a quantity to do any harm but any very bitter seed or fruit should not be eaten. In small quantities, hydrogen cyanide has been shown to stimulate respiration and improve digestion, it is also claimed to be of benefit in the treatment of cancer. In excess, however, it can cause respiratory failure and even death.

Distribution

It is a temperate plant. It does best in light to medium, well-drained soil. It needs a protected sunny position. It is resistant to frost but sensitive to drought. It suits hardiness zone 5-9. In Indonesia it grows between 800-2,000 m above sea level. Arboretum Tasmania. In Sichuan.

Where It Grows

Asia, Australia, China, Indonesia, Japan*, SE Asia, Tasmania,

Cultivation

Thrives in a well-drained moisture-retentive loamy soil. Prefers some lime in the soil but is likely to become chlorotic if too much lime is present. Succeeds in sun or partial shade though it fruits better when growing in a sunny position. Plants are hardy to about -25°c. There are many named varieties selected for their ornamental value. Most members of this genus are shallow-rooted and will produce suckers if the roots are damaged. Plants in this genus are notably susceptible to honey fungus.

Propagation

Seed requires 2–3 months of cold stratification and is best sown in a cold frame as soon as it is ripe. Stored seed should be sown in a cold frame as early in the year as possible and protected from mice. Germination can be slow, sometimes taking 18 months. Prick out seedlings into individual pots when large enough to handle, overwinter in a greenhouse or cold frame, then plant out in late spring or early summer the following year. Cuttings of half-ripe wood with a heel can be taken in July/August in a frame. Softwood cuttings from vigorous plants can be taken in spring to early summer in a frame. Layering can be done in spring.

Other Uses

A green dye can be obtained from the leaves, and a dark grey to green dye from the fruit.

Production

It can be short lived.

Notes

There are about 200 Prunus species.

Synonyms

Also Known As

Pohon ceri higan, Pohon ceri musim dingin

References (8)

• Ann. Mus. Bot. Lugduno-Batavum 2:91. 1865
• Bodkin, F., 1991, Encyclopedia Botanica. Cornstalk publishing, p 843
• Flora of China @ efloras.org Volume 9
• INFOODSUpdatedFGU-list.xls
• Lord, E.E., & Willis, J.H., 1999, Shrubs and Trees for Australian gardens. Lothian. p 68

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